How to Fix Runtime Error 217 on Windows 11/10 PC

Stuck with the runtime error 217 on Windows 11? This error usually occurs when you’re trying to launch a specific app or program on your device. And the worst part is that even if you try closing the error window, it keeps popping up consistently and hinders you from opening or running the application.

Image source: Jarvee

So, are you wondering how you can get past this error within no time? You’ve come to the right place. In this post, we have listed a step-by-step guide on resolving runtime error 217 on Windows using a bunch of possible solutions.

Let’s begin.

Also read: How To Fix No Battery is Detected Error on Windows 11 (6 Solutions)

What Causes the Runtime Error 217 on Windows?  

Here are some of the most common reasons that may trigger the runtime error on Windows 11:

• Incomplete app installation process.
• Interference or a third-party app.
• Corrupt Microsoft Visual C++ program.
• Corrupt system files and settings.
• Presence of a virus or malware on your device.

How to Fix Runtime Error 217 on Windows 11/10 PC

Solution 1: Run the SFC and DISM Commands 

One of the most straightforward methods to resolve the runtime error 217 on Windows is running the SFC, and DISM commands in admin mode. Here’s what you need to do:

Tap on the search icon placed on the Taskbar and type “Command Prompt.” Tap on the “Run as Administrator” option.

The Command Prompt app will now launch in admin mode.

First, run the SFC (System File Checker) utility scan on your device so that Windows can scan and restore corrupt system files.

Type the following command in the Terminal window and hit Enter to execute it:

sfc/scannow

Once the SFC command is executed, run the DISM command in the Terminal. The DISM (Deployment Image Servicing and Management) is an in-built utility on Windows that repairs corrupt system files and services Windows images. Copy and paste the following command in the terminal window and hit Enter to execute it.

DISM.exe /Online /Cleanup-image /Restorehealth

After executing both these commands, reboot your device and check if the issue was resolved.

Solution 2: Repair Microsoft Visual C++ Program

Press the Windows + R key combination to open the Run dialog box. Type “Appwiz.cpl” in the textbox and hit Enter.

The Control Panel window will now appear on the screen.

Scroll through the list of programs and look for “Microsoft C++ 2015-2019 Redistributable”. Right-click on it and select “Change.”

A new “Modify setup” alert will now pop up on the screen. Hit on the “Repair” button to get started.

Follow the on-screen instructions to repair the Microsoft Visual C++ program. Reboot your device and launch any app to check if you’re still stuck with the runtime error 217 on Windows 11.

Also read: How To Fix Error Code 0xc00d6d6f While Opening Media Files on Windows 11/10

Solution 3: Reinstall Applications 

An incomplete app installation process can usually trigger the runtime error 217 on your device. Hence, the best way to resolve this is to check for all such apps and complete the installation process. Here’s what you need to do:

Tap on the Windows icon on the Taskbar and select “Settings.”

Switch to the “Apps” section from the left menu pane and select “Apps and Features.”

Use the search bar to type the name of the problematic applications. Once you find it, tap on the three-dot icon placed next to it and select “Uninstall.” After uninstalling the application, re-install the app again to start afresh.

Solution 4: Reset Windows 

Tried the above-listed methods and still no luck? Well, resetting your PC might help. Here’s what you need to do:

Launch the Settings app and switch to the “System” tab from the left menu tab. Tap on “Recovery.”

Under the Recovery options section, hit the “Reset this PC” option.

Windows will now offer you two options that you can choose: “Keep my files” and “Remove Everything,” which will erase all your files, apps, and settings. Pick your option to proceed.

Follow the on-screen instructions to reset Windows 11 and check if the issue was resolved.

Also read: How To Fix Not Enough Memory to Run Microsoft Excel Error on Windows 11

Conclusion

Here are the four most effective methods to help you eliminate the runtime error 217 on Windows 11. So, if you are constantly being hit with the runtime error 217 while launching any app or program, you can use any of the above-listed solutions to fix the issue.

Do let us know which method did the trick for you. Feel free to share your thoughts in the comments box. Follow us on social media – Facebook, Instagram and YouTube.